THE COLDEST DECEMBER

I don't know why I'm extra cold today, but I am feeling it big-time. I've wrapped myself up in jumpers and blankets - a look which will go down excellently later when I log on to my next meeting, no doubt.

It's 7 degrees out there, apparently. By most standards that isn't particularly chilly, but somehow, maybe the wind is in the wrong direction, I'm really feeling it.

My Mum came over today to do the Secret Santa switch. I pulled out a piece of paper, then put mine in the hat. The plan is that we'll exchange presents rodeo-style on Boxing Day. With the regulations prohibiting the gathering of three or more households over Christmas, it seems this is the best idea we've got: bring your wagons and let's do Christmas in the Car Park. Technically, I think it's allowed so long as no more than six people get out of their cars at a time, though I do hope it's warmer than it is today.

Speaking of which, they say the chances of a 'White Christmas' are going up every day during this cold snap. Potentially this could be the coldest December on record! I don't remember the last time it snowed at Christmas - there was one time, I think, back in the 80s. After the year we've had, it would seem the least the weather could do to give us a little treat.

Anyway, I've been in colder temperatures than 7 degrees. It's been sub-zero out there before and I've kept myself warm in here; I'm not sure how it's got into my bones today. Perhaps it's time to start splicing the rum into the hot chocolate again - the old 'central heating for pirates'. Though, I don't want to be singing sea shanties out of the window. I'll save that for the Boxing Day rodeo.